Videoconference Supervision Policy

Solutions Behavioral Healthcare Professionals (Solutions) occasionally uses videoconferencing to provide individual and/or group supervision to all interns. In the case of inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances that prohibit interns and supervisors from meeting in-person, scheduled meetings are held in a virtual conference room where participants interact via high-quality, real-time transmission of simultaneous video and audio. There are no regularly scheduled training activities that occur in this format; however, given the geographical distance between training sites supervision and/or didactic seminars may take place via videoconference in the event that a scheduled in-person meeting is not possible. Each week, interns are required to participate in two hours of individual supervision and two hours of group supervision led by Solutions Training Faculty on a rotating basis. Solutions places high value on cohesion and socialization of intern cohorts, and virtual meetings via videoconferencing are an effective way to foster connection, as well as ensure continuity of training, professional development, and supervision when regularly scheduled in-person meetings are not possible. The use of videoconferencing technology for supervisory experiences is consistent with Solutions’ model and training philosophy, as Solutions places a strong training emphasis on access to behavioral healthcare in rural areas, which increasingly relies on the use of telehealth services. Consistent with IR C-15 I, telesupervision does not account for more than one hour (50%) of the minimum required two hours of individual supervision, and/or two hours (50%) of the minimum required four hours of weekly supervision.

Solutions also recognizes the importance of supervisory relationships. It is expected that the foundation for these supervisory relationships is cultivated during Solutions’ orientation, such that interns form relationships with the training faculty prior to engaging in telesupervision. Of note, for all clinical cases, full professional responsibility remains with the intern’s primary supervisor, and any crises or other time-sensitive issues must be reported to that supervisor immediately. Interns are provided contact information for all Solutions supervisors including email and phone numbers, so crises and time-sensitive information can be reported as necessary.

All Solutions videoconferencing occurs over a secure network using HIPAA-compliant technology. Supervision sessions using this technology are never recorded, thus protecting the privacy and confidentiality of all trainees. All interns are provided with instruction regarding the use of the videoconferencing equipment at the outset of the training year. Technical difficulties that cannot be resolved on site are directed to the site IT Department.